South Tyneside Council renews dog controls

South Tyneside Council has extended its public space protection order (PSPO) addressing dog control.  

The order restricts the maximum number of dogs permitted to be under the control of one person in public to four.  

It also requires those in control of dogs clean up after the pet, requires all dogs to be on leads no longer than 1.5 metres in South Marine Park and cemeteries at all times, and restricts the places where dogs are allowed, covering children’s play parks and school playing fields. 

In addition, the order prevents dogs from being on Sandhaven Beach from 1 May to 30 September between 8am and 6pm, and The final restriction states the those in control of dogs must put and keep the animals on a lead when directed to do so by an authorised officer. 

The order’s renewal follows a four-week public consultation, which attracted 320 responses. Of these, 97% felt it was important to control the way people look after dogs and the environment in shared public spaces. 

In addition, 83% felt that the problems associated with dogs in public places will return if the PSPO is not extended.  

The current orders were due to expire on 4 November, but following approval by South Tyneside Council cabinet, they will remain in place for a further three years. 

Councillor Jim Foreman, cabinet member for housing and community safety, said: “Through this process, we have been able to demonstrate that the retention of the dog control PSPO is both necessary and proportionate and the broad view of those consulted. 

“These particular tools are aimed at ensuring the borough’s public spaces can be enjoyed free from antisocial behaviour associated with dogs.”

PSPOs are enforceable by a fixed penalty notice of £100, which if not paid can lead to prosecution and a court fine of up to £1,000.